2016 - The run for the White House. While Barack Obama went about his business as President, Democrats confidently believed Hillary Clinton would prevail in winning the White House. Donald Trump, (a business man and reality TV star) under the guidance of political strategist Steve Bannon had become the Tea Party Republicans’ candidate. His popularity surpassed that of any single moderate Republican candidate.

With a Republican House and Senate afraid of losing Tea Party support, moderate Republicans caved, no longer resisting giving their endorsements of Trump. Mitt Romney was one of the few brave souls vocal in expressing his concerns about Trump’s demeanor. Look for some of Romney’s comments in the painting.

The Republican led Congress encouraged on-going investigations into Clinton’s handling of “secret” emails while Secretary of State. James Comey, the Director of the FBI opened and closed and then re-opened these investigation days before the election creating fodder for the media and Pro-Trump sound bites.

Actions taken by the Obama administration to open up relations with Cuba, protect transgender kids in schools and complete the Iran nuclear deal helped fuel a backlash from Republican conservatives. The Bannon/Trump strategy to build divisiveness in the country took hold feeding prejudices that many had thought were overcome years ago.

Some other things to look for in the painting that happened in 2016: Broadway Musical Hamilton, won the Pulitzer Prize for drama, Music legend Prince, Nancy Reagan and Gene Wilder died. Kobe Bryant retired from the LA Lakers. A 24-year old rookie wins the Indianapolis 500. Space X makes great strides in rocket technology, Films: The Room, Revenant and Star Wars are box office hits. There’s more, but I won't take away the fun of discovering items for yourself. Enjoy.

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